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James Hardie(JHX) - 2020 Q4 - Annual Report
2020-05-19 12:39
[Section 1: Company Information and Governance](index=7&type=section&id=Section%201) [Introduction](index=7&type=section&id=Introduction) James Hardie Industries plc is a global leader in manufacturing fiber cement siding and backerboard, and a market leader in Europe for fiber gypsum products - The company is a world leader in **fiber cement siding and backerboard**, and a market leader in **European fiber gypsum products**[13](index=13&type=chunk) - Primary geographic markets include the **United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines, and Europe**[13](index=13&type=chunk) - Products are utilized across various sectors including **new residential construction (single and multi-family), manufactured housing, repair and remodeling, and commercial/industrial applications**[13](index=13&type=chunk) [Selected Financial Data](index=7&type=section&id=Selected%20Financial%20Data) The company presents a five-year summary of consolidated financial data, highlighting consistent net sales growth and fluctuating net income, alongside key operational metrics Five-Year Selected Financial Data (Fiscal Years 2016-2020) | Indicator (US$ Millions, except per share data) | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | **Net Sales** | 2,606.8 | 2,506.6 | 2,054.5 | 1,921.6 | 1,728.2 | | **Net Income** | 241.5 | 228.8 | 146.1 | 276.5 | 244.4 | | **Total Assets** | 4,028.3 | 4,032.6 | 2,351.0 | 2,012.7 | 2,029.4 | | **Net Cash from Operating Activities** | 451.2 | 304.0 | 308.5 | 382.5 | 222.9 | | **Diluted EPS (US$)** | 0.54 | 0.52 | 0.33 | 0.62 | 0.55 | | **Dividends Declared per Share (US$)** | 0.36 | 0.40 | 0.38 | 0.39 | 0.58 | Asbestos Adjustments (Expense) Benefit (US$ Millions) | Year | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Amount | (58.2) | (22.0) | (156.4) | 40.4 | 5.5 | [Information on the Company](index=10&type=section&id=Information%20on%20the%20Company) [History and Development of the Company](index=10&type=section&id=History%20and%20Development%20of%20the%20Company) Established in 1888, James Hardie pioneered asbestos-free fiber cement technology and expanded globally, notably funding the Asbestos Injuries Compensation Fund (AICF) through the AFFA - The company was established in **1888**, listed on the **ASX** in **1951**, and pioneered **asbestos-free fiber cement technology** in the late-**1970s**[28](index=28&type=chunk) - In February **2007**, shareholders approved the **Amended and Restated Final Funding Agreement (AFFA)** to provide long-term funding to the **Asbestos Injuries Compensation Fund (AICF)** for Australian asbestos-related personal injury claims[30](index=30&type=chunk) - Despite having no legal ownership, the company consolidates **AICF** for financial reporting purposes due to its pecuniary and contractual interests under the **AFFA**[33](index=33&type=chunk) [Business Overview](index=12&type=section&id=Business%20Overview) James Hardie is a global leader in fiber cement and fiber gypsum building materials, with North America as its largest market, known for durable products and a multi-channel sales strategy Net Sales by Operating Segment (US$ Millions) | Segment | FY 2020 | FY 2019 | FY 2018 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | North America Fiber Cement | 1,816.4 | 1,676.9 | 1,578.1 | | Asia Pacific Fiber Cement | 418.4 | 446.8 | 425.4 | | Europe Building Products | 371.4 | 368.3 | 36.3 | | Other Businesses | 0.6 | 14.6 | 14.7 | | **Total Net Sales** | **2,606.8** | **2,506.6** | **2,054.5** | - The company's **fiber cement products** offer performance advantages such as resistance to **moisture, fire, impact, and termites** compared to wood-based products[39](index=39&type=chunk) - Principal raw materials for **fiber cement** are **cellulose fiber, silica, Portland cement, and water**. For **fiber gypsum**, key materials are **gypsum and recycled paper**[61](index=61&type=chunk) [Organizational Structure](index=20&type=section&id=Organizational%20Structure) Incorporated in Ireland, James Hardie Industries plc details its significant wholly-owned subsidiaries and their jurisdictions of establishment and tax residence Selected Significant Subsidiaries (as of 30 April 2020) | Name of Company | Jurisdiction of Establishment | Jurisdiction of Tax Residence | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | James Hardie Building Products Inc. | United States | United States | | James Hardie Australia Pty Ltd | Australia | Australia | | James Hardie Europe GmbH | Germany | Germany | | Fermacell B.V. | Netherlands | Netherlands | | James Hardie International Finance DAC | Ireland | Ireland | [Property, Plants and Equipment](index=21&type=section&id=Property%2C%20Plants%20and%20Equipment) The company operates numerous fiber cement and fiber gypsum manufacturing plants globally, with FY2020 capital expenditures at **US$193.8 million**, including a significant expansion in Prattville, Alabama - The company operates **fiber cement manufacturing plants** across the **US, Australia, New Zealand, and the Philippines**, and **six manufacturing plants** in **Europe**[90](index=90&type=chunk) Total Capital Expenditures (US$ Millions) | Year | FY 2020 | FY 2019 | FY 2018 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Total | 193.8 | 317.5 | 210.2 | - A significant active capital project is the **US$240.0 million Prattville Greenfield expansion**, expected to be commissioned in **FY22**, which will add **600 mmsf** of nameplate capacity[103](index=103&type=chunk) [Directors, Senior Management and Employees](index=25&type=section&id=Directors%2C%20Senior%20Management%20and%20Employees) [James Hardie Executive Team](index=25&type=section&id=James%20Hardie%20Executive%20Team) The executive team, led by CEO Dr. Jack Truong and CFO Jason Miele, oversees key corporate functions and strategic operations - **Dr. Jack G. Truong** was appointed CEO in January **2019**. He previously served as President and CEO of Electrolux North America and had a **22-year career** at **3M Company**[108](index=108&type=chunk)[109](index=109&type=chunk)[110](index=110&type=chunk) - **Jason Miele** was appointed CFO in February **2020**. He has been with **James Hardie** for over **13 years**, previously serving as VP of Investor and Media Relations, Global Treasurer, and Global Controller[112](index=112&type=chunk)[113](index=113&type=chunk)[114](index=114&type=chunk) [Board of Directors](index=30&type=section&id=Board%20of%20Directors) The Board of Directors, chaired by Michael Hammes, comprises non-executive directors with diverse international experience in management, finance, and manufacturing - **Michael Hammes** serves as the independent non-executive Chairman of the Board, appointed in January **2008**. He has extensive senior executive experience, including as CEO and Chairman of Sunrise Medical, Inc[138](index=138&type=chunk)[139](index=139&type=chunk) - **Brian Anderson**, an independent non-executive director since **2006**, is the Chairman of the Audit Committee. He previously served as CFO of Baxter International, Inc and was an Audit Partner at Deloitte & Touche LLP[142](index=142&type=chunk)[143](index=143&type=chunk) [Remuneration](index=36&type=section&id=Remuneration) Executive remuneration for FY2020 includes base salary, short-term and long-term incentive plans, with non-executive director fees set within a **US$3.8 million** shareholder-approved pool FY2020 Remuneration Elements for Senior Executive Officers | Duration | Plan Name | Allocation of Target | Form of Incentive | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Short Term (1 year) | Individual Performance Plan | 20% of STI Target | Cash | | | Company Performance Plan | 80% of STI Target | Cash | | Long Term (3 years) | ROCE RSUs | 25% of LTI Target | Restricted Stock Units | | | Relative TSR RSUs | 25% of LTI Target | Restricted Stock Units | | | Scorecard LTI | 50% of LTI Target | Cash | Total Remuneration for Senior Executive Officers (FY2020, US$) | Name | Base Pay | STI Award | Total Remuneration | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | J Truong (CEO) | 800,000 | 2,160,000 | 6,068,263 | | S Gadd | 558,038 | 747,252 | 2,676,674 | | J Blasko | 447,347 | 489,117 | 1,587,237 | - Non-executive director fees are determined within a maximum aggregate pool of **US$3.8 million** per annum, approved by shareholders at the **2019 AGM**[210](index=210&type=chunk) [Corporate Governance Report](index=53&type=section&id=Corporate%20Governance%20Report) The company adheres to ASX and NYSE corporate governance standards, with a Board overseeing strategic guidance, supported by key committees, a Global Code of Business Conduct, and a Workplace Diversity Policy - The company's corporate governance framework is evaluated against the **ASX Corporate Governance Principles** and the **NYSE Corporate Governance Standards**[250](index=250&type=chunk) - The Board has established three standing committees: **Audit, Remuneration, and Nominating and Governance**, each operating under a written charter[262](index=262&type=chunk)[266](index=266&type=chunk) - The company has adopted a **Global Code of Business Conduct** applicable to all employees and directors, an **ethics hotline**, and an **Insider Trading Policy**[326](index=326&type=chunk)[328](index=328&type=chunk)[332](index=332&type=chunk) Diversity Composition at End of FY2020 | Level | Percentage of Female Employees | Percentage with Diversity Characteristics | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | James Hardie Board | 33% (3 of 9) | 67% (6 of 9) | | US Senior Leadership | 15% (25 of 164) | 29% (47 of 164) | | US Total Workforce | 12% (342 of 2,760) | 38% (1,054 of 2,760) | [Section 2: Financial Information](index=70&type=section&id=Section%202) [Reading this Report](index=76&type=section&id=Reading%20this%20Report) This section provides a safe harbor statement, cautioning that forward-looking statements are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties, including asbestos liabilities and the COVID-19 pandemic - The report contains forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the **Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995**[371](index=371&type=chunk) - Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, including **asbestos liabilities, competition, market conditions, and the impact of COVID-19**, which may cause actual results to differ materially[374](index=374&type=chunk) [Management's Discussion and Analysis](index=77&type=section&id=Management%27s%20Discussion%20and%20Analysis) In FY2020, net sales increased **4% to US$2,606.8 million**, driven by North America Fiber Cement, while operating income decreased due to impairments and asbestos adjustments, with liquidity strengthened in response to COVID-19 FY20 vs. FY19 Operating Results (US$ Millions) | Metric | FY20 | FY19 | Change % | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Net sales | 2,606.8 | 2,506.6 | 4% | | Gross profit | 933.7 | 831.0 | 12% | | Operating income | 342.5 | 351.6 | (3%) | | Net income | 241.5 | 228.8 | 6% | - The **North America Fiber Cement** segment saw an **8%** increase in net sales to **US$1,816.4 million**, driven by **8%** volume growth and a **1%** increase in average net sales price[412](index=412&type=chunk)[416](index=416&type=chunk) - Asset impairments totaled **US$84.4 million** in **FY20**, primarily related to the closure of the **Summerville, USA** and **Penrose, New Zealand** manufacturing facilities and other non-core assets[408](index=408&type=chunk) - In response to **COVID-19**, the company suspended dividends, reduced **FY21** capital expenditure guidance to **US$80-95 million**, and will make its **AICF** contribution in quarterly installments[484](index=484&type=chunk) [Consolidated Financial Statements](index=99&type=section&id=Consolidated%20Financial%20Statements) This section presents the audited consolidated financial statements for FY2018-2020, with Ernst & Young LLP providing an unqualified opinion, highlighting asbestos liability valuation and long-lived asset impairment as critical audit matters - The independent auditor, **Ernst & Young LLP**, issued an unqualified opinion on the consolidated financial statements and the company's internal control over financial reporting as of March **31, 2020**[499](index=499&type=chunk)[500](index=500&type=chunk) - Critical Audit Matters identified by the auditor were the **Asbestos Liability Valuation**, due to the complexity and subjectivity of actuarial estimates, and the **Impairment of Long-lived Assets**, due to the subjectivity of fair value determination[504](index=504&type=chunk) [Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements](index=106&type=section&id=Notes%20to%20Consolidated%20Financial%20Statements) The notes detail significant accounting policies and financial statement items, including AICF consolidation, COVID-19 impact, revenue recognition, and specifics on assets, liabilities, and segment information - The company consolidates the **Asbestos Injuries Compensation Fund (AICF)** as a **Variable Interest Entity (VIE)** due to its pecuniary and contractual interests under the **AFFA**, despite having no ownership interest[517](index=517&type=chunk) - The asbestos liability is based on an undiscounted and uninflated central estimate from an actuarial study by **KPMGA**, which projected future cash flows through **2072**[561](index=561&type=chunk)[562](index=562&type=chunk) Asbestos Liability Central Estimates (as of 31 March 2020) | Estimate Type | US$ Millions | A$ Millions | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Discounted and Inflated | 1,250.9 | 2,025.2 | | Undiscounted and Uninflated | 897.1 | 1,452.4 | - The company adopted the new lease accounting standard (**ASC 842**) on April **1, 2019**, recognizing a right-of-use asset of **US$79.7 million** and a lease liability of **US$82.0 million** upon adoption[589](index=589&type=chunk) [Remuneration of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm](index=153&type=section&id=Remuneration%20of%20Independent%20Registered%20Public%20Accounting%20Firm) This section details the fees billed by Ernst & Young LLP for professional services over the last three fiscal years, all pre-approved by the Audit Committee Fees Billed by Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (US$ Millions) | Service | FY20 | FY19 | FY18 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Audit fees | 5.7 | 5.7 | 4.3 | | Audit-related fees | — | — | — | | Tax fees | — | — | — | | All other fees | — | — | — | - All services provided by the independent registered public accounting firm are pre-approved by the Audit Committee[746](index=746&type=chunk) [Section 3: Risk Factors and Other Information](index=154&type=section&id=Section%203) [Risk Factors](index=154&type=section&id=Risk%20Factors) The company faces significant risks including the COVID-19 pandemic, dependence on construction markets, competition, capital expenditure overruns, regulatory actions, currency fluctuations, product liabilities, and asbestos-related funding obligations - The **COVID-19 pandemic** poses a significant risk, potentially impacting manufacturing operations, supply chains, and product demand due to economic downturns and decreased construction activity[749](index=749&type=chunk)[751](index=751&type=chunk) - The company's funding obligation to the **Asbestos Injuries Compensation Fund (AFFA)** reduces funds available for growth and could be extended if claims escalate beyond current actuarial estimates[811](index=811&type=chunk)[814](index=814&type=chunk)[815](index=815&type=chunk) - The business is dependent on **residential and commercial construction markets**, which are influenced by factors outside the company's control like interest rates, unemployment, and consumer confidence[752](index=752&type=chunk)[753](index=753&type=chunk) - Ongoing **New Zealand product liability litigation** concerning **weathertightness claims** could result in material losses, as the total liability is subject to significant uncertainties[768](index=768&type=chunk)[769](index=769&type=chunk) [Legal Proceedings](index=173&type=section&id=Legal%20Proceedings) The company is involved in various legal proceedings, notably New Zealand weathertightness claims, for which liabilities are recognized when probable and estimable, though ultimate outcomes remain uncertain - The company is a defendant in numerous **weathertightness claims** in **New Zealand** concerning buildings constructed mainly between **1998** and **2004**[846](index=846&type=chunk) - A liability is recognized for these claims when a loss is probable and estimable, but the ultimate outcome could be materially different from current estimates due to various uncertainties[847](index=847&type=chunk)[848](index=848&type=chunk) [Controls and Procedures](index=175&type=section&id=Controls%20and%20Procedures) Management concluded that disclosure controls and internal control over financial reporting were effective as of March 31, 2020, a conclusion affirmed by Ernst & Young LLP's unqualified opinion - Management concluded that the company's disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of March **31, 2020**[851](index=851&type=chunk) - Based on the **COSO 2013 framework**, management concluded that internal control over financial reporting was effective as of March **31, 2020**[853](index=853&type=chunk) - **Ernst & Young LLP** provided an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the company's internal control over financial reporting[857](index=857&type=chunk) [Employees](index=177&type=section&id=Employees) As of March 31, 2020, James Hardie employed an average of **4,869** people globally, with a significant portion in North America and a satisfactory relationship with labor unions Average Number of Employees by Segment/Region | Region/Segment | FY 2020 | FY 2019 | FY 2018 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Fiber Cement US & Canada | 2,563 | 2,592 | 2,659 | | Europe Building Products | 972 | 994 | 80 | | Fiber Cement Australia | 597 | 603 | 539 | | Fiber Cement New Zealand | 180 | 186 | 170 | | Fiber Cement Philippines | 340 | 304 | 261 | | **Total Employees** | **4,869** | **4,916** | **3,960** | - As of March **31, 2020**, approximately **791 employees** were covered by collective agreements, primarily in **Europe, Australia, and New Zealand**[866](index=866&type=chunk) [Listing Details](index=177&type=section&id=Listing%20Details) James Hardie's securities are listed on the ASX as CUFS and on the NYSE as ADSs under the ticker symbol "JHX", with each ADS representing one CUFS - The company's securities trade on the **ASX** as **CUFS** and on the **NYSE** as **ADSs**, both under the symbol "**JHX**"[867](index=867&type=chunk)[870](index=870&type=chunk) - The beneficial ownership ratio is **one share of common stock per CUFS**, and **one CUFS per ADS**[867](index=867&type=chunk) [Constitution](index=180&type=section&id=Constitution) As an Irish plc, James Hardie is governed by its Constitution and the Irish Companies Act 2014, outlining provisions for share issuance, voting rights, dividends, and Irish takeover rules - The company is an **Irish plc** governed by the **Irish Companies Act 2014** and its Constitution[879](index=879&type=chunk) - The Board has the power to issue shares up to the authorized share capital and to limit statutory pre-emptive rights, subject to shareholder approval and renewal every **five years**[887](index=887&type=chunk) - Under the **Irish Takeover Rules**, an acquirer whose voting rights reach **30%** or more must generally make a mandatory cash offer for the entire company[831](index=831&type=chunk)[917](index=917&type=chunk) - Dividends may only be paid from sufficient distributable profits and provided the company's net assets are not less than its called-up share capital plus undistributable reserves[909](index=909&type=chunk) [Material Contracts](index=187&type=section&id=Material%20Contracts) The company reports no material contracts requiring disclosure beyond those already detailed, such as the AFFA, debt facilities, and executive compensation plans - No material contracts require disclosure beyond those already described in the report, such as the **AFFA, debt agreements, and executive compensation plans**[928](index=928&type=chunk) [Exchange Controls](index=187&type=section&id=Exchange%20Controls) Ireland has no significant legislative restrictions on capital import/export or remittances to non-resident security holders, except for standard EU financial sanctions - There are no legal provisions in **Ireland** restricting the import/export of capital or remittances to non-resident security holders, other than standard **EU financial sanctions**[931](index=931&type=chunk) - There are no limitations under **Irish law** or the company's Constitution on the right of non-residents to hold or vote the company's common stock[932](index=932&type=chunk) [Taxation](index=188&type=section&id=Taxation) This section summarizes material US and Irish tax consequences for shareholders, including dividend taxation and withholding tax exemptions for non-Irish residents from treaty or EU countries - For **US Shareholders**, dividends are generally considered "**qualified dividend income**" subject to a maximum **20%** tax rate, provided holding period requirements are met[939](index=939&type=chunk) - Distributions from the company are subject to a **25% Irish dividend withholding tax**, but exemptions are available for non-Irish resident shareholders from treaty or **EU** countries who submit the required declaration forms[955](index=955&type=chunk)[956](index=956&type=chunk) - The company believes it is eligible for benefits under the **US-Ireland Income Tax Treaty**, which reduces **US** withholding tax on interest and dividends paid from its **US** subsidiaries to its **Irish** resident subsidiaries[838](index=838&type=chunk)[839](index=839&type=chunk) [Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk](index=196&type=section&id=Quantitative%20and%20Qualitative%20Disclosures%20About%20Market%20Risk) The company is exposed to market risks including foreign currency, interest rates, and commodity prices, with a **10% AUD/USD** movement impacting net income by **US$54.4 million** - The company is exposed to foreign currency risk, particularly from its **Australian dollar-denominated AFFA liability** against its primarily **US dollar** revenues[977](index=977&type=chunk) - A **10%** movement in the **AUD/USD exchange rate** would have an approximate **US$54.4 million** impact on net income, based on the unfunded net **AFFA** liability at March **31, 2020**[983](index=983&type=chunk) - The company is exposed to commodity price risk for materials like **pulp and cement**. A **+/- 10%** change in the average cost of core commodities would have impacted **FY20** cost of sales by **+/- US$31.8 million**[989](index=989&type=chunk) [Section 4: Shareholder Information and Appendices](index=199&type=section&id=Section%204) [Share/CHESS Units of Foreign Securities Information](index=199&type=section&id=SHARE%2FCHESS%20Units%20of%20Foreign%20Securities%20Information) As of April 30, 2020, the company had **443,144,740 CUFS** outstanding, with Australia holding the largest beneficial ownership at **61.38%** Geographic Distribution of Beneficial Ownership (as of 31 March 2020) | Geographic Region | Percentage | | :--- | :--- | | Australia | 61.38% | | United States | 14.65% | | United Kingdom | 4.50% | | Europe (ex-UK) | 6.27% | | Asia | 5.08% | | Other | 8.12% | Top 3 Substantial CUFS Holders (as of 30 April 2020) | CUFS Holder | Percentage of Shares Outstanding | | :--- | :--- | | BlackRock, Inc | 6.40% | | AustralianSuper Pty Ltd | 5.99% | | Commonwealth Bank of Australia | 5.99% | [Glossary of Abbreviations and Definitions](index=202&type=section&id=Glossary%20of%20Abbreviations%20and%20Definitions) This section provides a glossary of abbreviations and definitions used throughout the report, including key terms and a cross-reference for US GAAP to Australian financial terminology - The report includes a glossary defining key abbreviations like **AFFA, AICF, CUFS**, and financial metrics such as **ROCE** and **TSR**[1002](index=1002&type=chunk)[1003](index=1003&type=chunk) - A table is provided to cross-reference **US GAAP** financial terms (e.g., Operating income) to their Australian equivalent terminology (e.g., **EBIT**)[1005](index=1005&type=chunk) [Exhibit List](index=204&type=section&id=Exhibit%20List) This section lists all exhibits filed with the Form 20-F, including corporate documents, AFFA agreements, debt instruments, and Sarbanes-Oxley Act certifications - Lists key corporate documents filed as exhibits, including the company's Constitution (Memorandum and Articles of Association)[1007](index=1007&type=chunk) - Includes various agreements related to the **AFFA**, debt indentures, and credit facilities[1007](index=1007&type=chunk)[1008](index=1008&type=chunk) - Contains required certifications from the CEO and CFO under Sections **302** and **906** of the **Sarbanes-Oxley Act**[1011](index=1011&type=chunk) [Signatures](index=210&type=section&id=Signatures) The annual report was certified and signed on May 19, 2020, by CEO Jack Truong and Chairman Michael N. Hammes, confirming compliance with Form 20-F filing requirements - The Form **20-F** was signed and certified on May **19, 2020**[1014](index=1014&type=chunk)[1015](index=1015&type=chunk) - The signatories are **Jack Truong, Chief Executive Officer**, and **Michael N. Hammes, Chairman**[1014](index=1014&type=chunk)[1015](index=1015&type=chunk)
James Hardie(JHX) - 2020 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript
2020-05-19 06:18
Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a 7% volume increase in Q4, with North America leading at 10% growth. Adjusted EBIT grew by 21% in Q4, driven by a 26% increase in North America and a 4% increase in Asia-Pacific. Adjusted NOP increased by 17% for both the quarter and the full year. Operating cash flow surged by 48%, enhancing liquidity and financial flexibility [11][12][25]. Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In North America, the exterior business saw an 11% volume growth in Q4 and 9% for the full year. The interiors business improved with a 5% volume growth in Q4 and 1% for the full year. The EBIT margin for North America reached 25.9%, exceeding long-term targets [13][15][16]. - In Europe, Q4 revenue grew by 7%, with fiber cement business revenue increasing by 50%. However, EBIT growth was hindered by higher integration and SG&A costs [17][18]. - In the Asia-Pacific region, EBIT growth was impacted by lockdowns, resulting in a 4% growth in Q4 and 2% for the full year, with an EBIT margin of 22.7% [19][21]. Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - North America showed strong performance across all key financial metrics, while Europe experienced a recovery in commercial execution with significant growth in fiber cement. The Australian business maintained growth despite market pressures [11][17][19]. Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to maintain a safe work environment, ensure strong liquidity, and gain market share through a push-pull strategy. The focus is on continuous improvement and innovation to meet customer needs [51][53][61]. - Strategic actions include closing underperforming plants and exiting non-core businesses to enhance operational efficiency and financial flexibility [29][31][33]. Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in navigating the COVID-19 crisis while maintaining business continuity. They anticipate a gradual recovery in the housing market, with a focus on customer engagement and market share growth [9][58][80]. - The company expects to achieve EBIT accretion of $20 million to $30 million in FY '21 from recent strategic actions, with increasing benefits expected throughout the year [35][41]. Other Important Information - The company suspended dividends and reduced capital expenditures for FY '21 to focus on safety, maintenance, and innovation [27][45]. - Liquidity improved significantly, reaching $579 million by the end of April 2020, with a leverage ratio of 1.9, well below the covenant requirement [47][48]. Q&A Session Summary Question: What factors influence the North American margin range? - The top end is driven by efficiency and continuous improvement, while the bottom end depends on volume, which is volatile [68][69]. Question: What is the market growth and PDG contribution? - The focus is on gaining market share rather than predicting market growth, with improvements noted in recent weeks [70][72]. Question: What are the strategic actions in different regions? - North America focuses on leveraging product offerings, Europe on fiber cement growth, and Australia on lightweight construction trends [76][78]. Question: What is the expected recovery shape? - A cautious approach is taken, anticipating a gradual recovery influenced by economic factors and employment rates [80][81]. Question: What are the lean savings targets? - The company aims to maintain and improve upon previous lean savings, with a target of $40 million to $45 million for FY '21 [96][98].
James Hardie(JHX) - 2020 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript
2020-02-12 04:38
James Hardie Industries plc. (NYSE:JHX) Q3 2020 Results Earnings Conference Call February 11, 2020 5:00 PM ET Company Participants Jack Truong - CEO Jason Miele - Head, IR Anne Lloyd - Interim CFO Conference Call Participants Simon Thackray - Jefferies Peter Wilson - Credit Suisse Sophie Spartellus - Bank of America Lee Power - CLSA Peter Steyn - Macquarie Keith Chau - MST Marquee Jack Truong Good morning, everyone. Thank you for joining us in our Q3 Fiscal Year 2020 Earnings Call. I will begin by discussin ...
James Hardie(JHX) - 2020 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript
2019-11-09 22:23
James Hardie Industries plc (NYSE:JHX) Q2 2020 Results Conference Call November 6, 2019 5:00 PM ET Company Participants Jack Truong - CEO Jason Miele - Head, IR Anne Lloyd - Interim CFO Conference Call Participants Peter Steyn - Macquarie Sophie Spartalis - Merrill Lynch Peter Wilson - Credit Suisse Lee Power - CLSA Simon Thackray - Jefferies Brook Campbell - JP Morgan Daniel Kang - Citigroup Grant Slade - Morningstar Paul Quinn - RBC Capital Jack Truong Good morning, everyone, and thank you for joining us ...
James Hardie(JHX) - 2020 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript
2019-08-11 22:54
James Hardie Industries plc. (NYSE:JHX) Q1 2020 Results Earnings Conference Call August 8, 2019 6:00 PM ET Company Participants Jack Truong - CEO Matt Marsh - CFO Conference Call Participants Peter Stein - Macquarrie Group Brook Campbell-Crawford - JPMorgan Keith Chau - MST Marquee Andrew Scott - Morgan Stanley Sophie Spartalis - Merrill Lynch Peter Wilson - Credit Suisse Grant Slade - Morningtsar James Brennan-Chong - UBS Operator Ladies and Gentlemen, thank you for standing by, and welcome to the James Ha ...
James Hardie(JHX) - 2019 Q4 - Annual Report
2019-05-20 22:29
Table of Contents UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 FORM 20-F (Mark One) ☐ REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR (g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 OR ☒ ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the fiscal year ended 31 March 2019 OR ☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 OR ☐ SHELL COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCH ...